Digital Imaging and Microscope Information

from the

UK Extension Plant Pathology Group

John Hartman, Donald Hershman, Kenny Seebold, Paul Vincelli, Paul Bachi, Julie Beale

Contact: Paul Bachi updated November 17, 2009

Reason for this Document

County agents often ask our opinion on digital cameras, digital equipment, and microscopes. In an effort to make this information available to everyone and to keep down the time it takes to answer individual requests, we decided to put the information on our web site.

We will do our best to keep this document updated with the latest information available.

Listing of products or vendors implies no endorsement by the University of Kentucky nor its representatives. Criticism of products not listed is neither implied nor intended.

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Use of Digital Images in Solving Plant Problems

We believe that, in a majority of cases, images are not a substitute for live plant specimens. The use of digital images of plant problems is best viewed as an aid in "consultation" about a problem situation. Pictures should enhance telephone, postal, and e-mail consultation efforts between the specialist and county agent, for example, and in some cases, could lead to a tentative diagnosis. We believe digital images used in diagnosis need to be viewed as a supplement to a specimen, "just another tool" for the diagnostician. The phrase "distance diagnosis" has caused problems in slanting expectations as to the veracity of results obtained when using images as the only "specimen".

The Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory has completed three full years, as of late 2007, working with the "Digital Consulting System", a web-based system for County Extension Offices and Extension Specialists. The "Digital Consulting System" was created in cooperation with the UK College of Agriculture's Ag Communication Services Department.
The images can be used to help determine how and where best to collect samples for submission to the laboratory, as well as general or specific advice on a wide range of topics.
The system is also useful for Homeland Security purposes because the topic possibilities are not limited to plants and because specialists in other states can be brought into the system as a consultant on a case-by-case basis.

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Digital Imaging Overview

A digital image can be used in print, e-mail, electronic or 35mm slide presentations, or on Web sites. You can digitize existing photographs with a flatbed scanner or a digital camera if you are good at it and your camera will allow close ups. A flatbed scanner or dedicated 35mm slide scanner can digitize 35mm slides. A flatbed scanner can also capture a usable image of a 3-dimensional object. Of course, digital cameras can take images of all kinds of objects, indoors and outdoors.

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Digital Imaging Product Information:
Where to get it?

Local businesses and stores, catalogs, and Web sites, are good places for product specifications and other information.

Here's a selected list of some businesses specializing in digital imaging technology.

Computers4sure 800-266-7883 http://www.computers4sure.com
Good information and selection of all kinds of computers, software, printers, scanners, graphics and design software, digital cameras, etc.

DaLite http://www.da-lite.com/products/
A web site for video screens. See the list of "Links" at the right of this page for a guide to "Selecting the Right Screen and Screen Surface" as well as other helpful information.

Digital Photography Review http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/
Digital camera reviews; a good balance of detailed and practical information

Digital Camera Resource http://www.dcresource.com/
Detailed camera reviews, etc.

Camera labs http://www.cameralabs.com/
Digital camera reviews; a good balance of detailed and practical information

Imaging Resource http://www.imaging-resource.com/DIGCAM01.HTM
Digital camera reviews, etc.

igo.com 1-888-205-0093 http://www.igo.com
Specializing in Mobile Computer Technology plus 1000s of Batteries for laptops, cell phones, camcorders; AC adapters and chargers, world-travel voltage adapters, auto adapters and other tools for the mobile professional.

LCD Projector Bulbs 1-886-523-2852 http://www.lcdprojectorbulbs.com/

Mobile Planet 1-800-675-2638 http://www.mobileplanet.com/
Specializing in Mobile Computer Technology and related items.

My Simon http://www.mysimon.com/index.jhtml
Compare products and prices from around the Web.

PC Connection/GovConnection http://www.pcconnection.com
Good information source for desktop and notebook computers, software, printers, scanners, digital cameras, graphics and design software, digital video products, monitors, video cards and storage products.

PriceGrabber http://www.pricegrabber.com/
Pricing for on-line shopping.

ProjectorPlace 1-888-248-0675
http://www.projectorplace.com/projectors/projector-comparisons.asp
Compare projector specifications and price, 3 at a time.

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Tips on Buying Smartly

See the following article on the PC World web site
Resolutions for Smart Buyers
(12 tips for avoiding rip-offs, scams, and other shopping hazards in 2000 and still valid today.)

Survey from PC World dated November 27, 2007
on the Most and Least Reliable Brands
http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,139958/article.html#

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Tips on Buying a Digital Camera

http://pcworld.com/article/id,125645-page,1-c,digitalcameras/article.html
help with what you need to know to buy a digital camera.

http://www.shortcourses.com/guide/
a short course in choosing a digital camera

http://www.steves-digicams.com/digi-dictionary.html
a very good "digicam" dictionary of technical terms

Side by Side comparisons:
"Digital Photography Review" website
a list of features of the cameras selected

http://steves-digicams.pgpartner.com/search_attrib.php/page_id=48
Search by price, brand, resolution, optical zoom, etc. or a multiple of parameters

Resolution:
The higher the number, the more pixels but not necessarily a better picture.

You will find other numbers below, between, and above these standard resolutions. The resolution you need for a decent picture for printing depends on the size of the print; the larger the print size, the larger the resolution needed. Most cameras with a high resolution can also take images at lower resolutions. If not, you will need to use image editing software to reduce the resolution of your images for efficient use on a website or for e-mail.
The resolutions in the table above are in the standard 4:3 format but with the newer widescreen TVs, the soon to be standard format is 16:9 (which are usually designated by the letter "W" at the beginning of the designation, e.g. WQXGA 2560x1600). Most newer cameras can take images in both the 4:3 and 16:9 formats.

Lenses:
The better cameras come with an optical lens that has auto focusing. Some of these optical lenses also have a macro feature for close-up work. Many of these optical lenses come with a zoom feature. The best lens is an optical lens with zoom and auto focusing throughout the zoom range. Digital zooming is done electronically by which the camera estimates what the image will look like when zoomed in. This digital estimate is of a lower resolution than the non-digitally zoomed original image. That is why it is better to have an optical zoom lens which uses the lens' optics to zoom in on a subject and preserves the capability of taking an image at the camera's highest resolution .

Minimum focus range:
The smaller or closer to the object you can focus the better for small or close-up work. The better cameras have a minimum range of about 4" or smaller. Some cameras can get much closer but getting light between the lens and the subject is difficult.

Picture storage medium:
Most cameras store pictures on memory cards which slip into the camera: need more storage space for more pictures just pop in another card like you would another roll of film. There are several types of memory cards. Some cameras have internal memory only which limits the number of pictures you can take at one time until they must be downloaded and erased from the camera so more pictures can be taken. Some have both internal memory and memory card capability.
See this article for information on long-term storage of digital images.

also...Picture storage on the go:
Most of these devices are portable, battery operated, mass storage devices for digital cameras, MP3 players or any multimedia hardware that uses removable flash memory cards.
See more information at Image storage devices.

Getting digital images into your computer:
Many of the older cameras have a serial port for output and come with the cable to go between the camera and the serial port on your computer. Many newer cameras have a USB port (USB 1.1 or USB 2.0 better) or even a FireWire port for output and come with the cable to go between the camera and the USB port or FireWire Port on your computer. Most newer computers have USB ports.

A memory card reader is basically an external drive which connects to the parallel or USB port on your computer. Put your memory card in and the device will download the images to your computer.

Image output to TV:
This is an especially nice feature if you are not near a computer but have a TV which has a video input jack. You can view the pictures on TV by running through them as you would on the LCD view panel on the back of the camera.

There are a few TV display devices on the market.

Several camera makers are offering docking stations for their digital cameras which are plugged into a TV for image viewing and other features (e.g. printing): see Kodak , HP, Fuji and Casio.

Power source:
All cameras use batteries and most have standard or optional AC adapters. Many use AA-size batteries but some come with a lithium ion battery. Of the AA-size batteries the best would be NiMH, followed by NiCad, Alkaline, and then Standard. Check to see whether your camera can take NiMH or NiCad batteries before purchasing them. A camera that comes with rechargeable batteries and charger is a nice touch because digital cameras are power hungry, especially if you use the color LCD view panel a lot.
See this overview from Steve's DigiCams on batteries.

Included software package:
All cameras have some type of software, usually the company's own, which is used to download, save, delete pictures from the camera. Most all cameras come with a photo editing software package like Adobe's PhotoDeluxe or the manufacturer's proprietary software so you can edit the pictures, if necessary, for size, brightness, color, etc.

Which digital camera to buy?

http://pcworld.com/article/id,125645-page,1-c,digitalcameras/article.html
help with what you need to know to buy a digital camera.

http://www.shortcourses.com/guide/
a short course in choosing a digital camera

http://www.steves-digicams.com/digi-dictionary.html
a very good "digicam" dictionary of technical terms

Side by Side comparisons:
"Digital Photography Review" website
a list of features of the cameras selected

http://steves-digicams.pgpartner.com/search_attrib.php/page_id=48
Search by price, brand, resolution, optical zoom, etc. or a multiple of parameters

***"County Agent" cameras***
Fixed lens cameras only, not Digital SLR
(click for Digital SLR camera reviews and/or Digital SLR camera/gear reviews)

Prices from ~$119 to ~$579.

Wet weather options...

See 7 wet-weather camera comparison at
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q209waterproofgroup/
Canon PowerShot D10
Fujifilm Z33WP
Olympus Stylus Tough 6000
Olympus Stylus Tough 8000
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1
Pentax Optio W60
Pentax Optio W80

...provide all-weather protection.

----------------------------------------------

Standard (not Wet-Weather) Digital Camera Selection Criteria:
-at least a 4x optical lens
-reviewed favorably by at least one of the six main digital camera websites
listed here :
1- http://www.dpreview.com/ (Digital Photography Review)
(highly detailed information)
2- http://www.dcresource.com/ (Digital Camera Resource)
(a good balance of detailed and practical information)
3- http://www.cameralabs.com/ (Camera Labs)
(a good balance of detailed and practical information)
4- http://www.photographyblog.com/ (Photography Blog)
(a good balance of detailed and practical information)
5- http://www.imaging-resource.com/ (ImagingResource)
(basically good reviews)
6- http://www.steves-digicams.com/ (Steve's Digicams)
(basically good reviews)

Samsung SL420 (~$139)
Lens: 5x optical, 35-175mm, optical image stabilization
Resolution (max):3648 x 2736 (10.2 megapixels); 3648 x 2432 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.7 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 4.0 inches
ISO range: 80-1600 (3200 at 3mp)
Movies (max): 640x480 30fps w/sound
Memory: 40MB internal; can use SD/SDHC, MMC cards.
Batteries/Charger: comes with lithium ion battery and a charger
Has a voice recording mode, enables use as a digital sound recorder
Reviews: http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/samsung/sl420/samsung-sl420-review.html

Canon PowerShot A1100 IS (~$179)
Lens: 4x optical, 35-140mm, optical image stabilization
Resolution (max):4000 x 3000 (12.1 megapixels); 4000 x 2248 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.5 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: Yes
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 3.0 cm
ISO range: 80-1600
Movies (max): 640x480 30fps w/sound
Memory: 128MB SD card included; can use SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC+, and HC MMC+ cards.
Batteries/Charger: comes with 2 AA alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger).
Reviews: http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_powershot_a1100_is_review/
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2009_reviews/canon_a1100is.html

Fujifilm FinePix S1000fd (~$185)
Lens: 12x optical, 33-396mm
Resolution (max): 3648 x 2736 (10.0 megapixels)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.7 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 0.8 inch
ISO range: 64-3200
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 24MB internal; takes SD and xD-Picture memory cards
Batteries/Charger: comes with 4 AA alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger)
Reviews: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/fuji_s1000fd.html

Canon PowerShot A2000 IS (~$199)
Lens: 6x optical, 36-216mm, optical image stabilization
Resolution (max):3648 x 2736 (10.0 megapixels); 3648 x 2048 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 3.0/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1.0 cm
ISO range: 80-1600
Movies (max): 640x480 30fps w/sound
Memory: 32MB SD card included; can use SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC+, and HC MMC+ cards.
Batteries/Charger: comes with 2 AA alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger).
Reviews: http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/canon/powershot_a2000-review/index.shtml
http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Canon_PowerShot_A2000_IS/
http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/A2000IS/A2000ISA.HTM


Canon PowerShot A2100 IS (~$239)
Lens: 6x optical, 36-216mm, optical image stabilization
Resolution (max): 4000 x 3000 (12.1 megapixels); 4000 x 2248 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 3.0/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1.0 cm
ISO range: 80-1600
Movies (max): 640x480 30fps w/sound
Memory: 128MB SD card included; can use SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC+, and HC MMC+ cards.
Batteries/Charger: comes with 2 AA alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger).
Reviews: http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Canon_PowerShot_A2100_IS/

Canon PowerShot SX120 IS (~$259)
Lens: 10x optical, 36-360mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 3648 x 2736 (10 megapixels), 3648 x 2048 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 3.0 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1 cm
ISO range: 80-1600
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 128MB SD card included, supports SDHC
Batteries/Charger: comes with 2 AA alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger)
Reviews: http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Canon_PowerShot_SX120_IS/index.shtml
http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_powershot_sx120_is_review/

Olympus SP-565 UZ (~$299)
Lens: 20x optical, 26-520mm, optical image stabilized (mechanical, not electrical, control)
Resolution (max): 3648 x 2736 (10.0 megapixels), 1920 x 1080 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.5 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 0.4 cm in super macro mode
ISO range: 64-6400 (3200 and 6400 at 5 megapixels only)
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 48MB built-in, uses xD-Picture and microSD cards
Batteries/Charger: comes with 4 AA Alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger)
Reviews: http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/default.asp?newsID=3951&review=olympus+sp565
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2009_reviews/olympus_sp565.html

Canon PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH (~$329)
Lens: 5 optical, 37-185mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 4000 x 3000 (12.1 megapixels), 4000 x 2248 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 3.0 inch/461,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 0 cm in super macro mode
ISO range: 80-1600
Movies (max): 1280x720-30fps w/sound
Memory: no built-in memory or card included
Batteries/Charger: rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger included
Reviews: http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/canon/powershot_sd970-review

Canon PowerShot SX200 IS (~$329)
Lens: 12x optical, 28-336mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 4000 x 3000 (12.1 megapixels), 4000 x 2248 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 3.0 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 0 cm in super macro mode
ISO range: 80-1600
Movies (max): 1280x720-30fps w/sound
Memory: no built-in memory or card included
Batteries/Charger: rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger included
Reviews: http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/canon/powershot_sx200-review/index.shtml
http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/default.asp?newsID=3947&review=canon+powershot+sx200
http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_powershot_sx200_is_review/

Fujifilm FinePix f200EXR (~$349)
Lens: 5x optical, 28-140mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 4000 x 3000 (12.0 megapixels), 4000 x 2248 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 3.0 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 5 cm
ISO range: 64-3200; 6400 and 12800 at reduced resolution
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 48MB internal; takes SD and xD-Picture memory cards
Batteries/Charger: comes with lithium-ion battery and a charger
Reviews: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/fujifilmf200exr/
http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/fuji/finepix_f200exr-review/index.shtml

Nikon CoolPix P80 (~$379)
Lens: 18x optical lens, 27-486mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 3648 x 2736 (10.1 megapixels), also 16:9
LCD display size/pixels: 2.7 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 4 inch
ISO range: 64-6400
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 50MB built-in, uses SD and SDHC cards
Batteries/Charger: rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger included
Reviews: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/nikon_p80.html
http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/CPP80/CPP80A.HTM

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 (FZ38) (~$399)
Lens: 18x optical, 27-486mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 4000 x 3000 (12.1 megapixels), 4000 x 2248 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.7 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1 cm
ISO range: 80-1600 (1600-6400 high sensitivity mode)
Movies (max): 1280x720-30fps, 848 x 480-30fps in 16:9
Memory: 50MB built-in, takes SD/SDHC card
Batteries/Charger: rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger included
Reviews: http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/panasonic/dmc_fz35-review
http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Panasonic_Lumix_DMC_FZ35_FZ38/index.shtml
http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/panasonic_lumix_dmc_fz38_review/

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS (~$399)
Lens: 20x optical, 28-560mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 4000 x 3000 (12.1 megapixels), 3840 x 2160 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.5 inch/230,000; fully articulated
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 0 cm (not a typo)
ISO range: 80-1600 (3200 option)
Movies (max): 1280x720-30fps w/sound
Memory: uses SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC+, and HC MMC+ cards.
Batteries/Charger: comes with 4 AA alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger)
Reviews: http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Canon_PowerShot_SX20_IS/

See Compact SuperZoom Camera Group Review
Canon PowerShot SX200 IS
Olympus Stylus 9000
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3
Samsung HZ10W
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/q209grouplongzoom/

See another Compact SuperZoom Camera Group Review
Kodak EazyShare Z980
Nikon Coolpix P90
Olympus SP-590 Ultra Zoom
Pentax X70
http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/2009-super-zoom-shootout

Olympus SP-590 UZ (~$449)
Lens: 26x optical, 26-676mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 3968 x 2976 (12.0 megapixels), 3968 x 2232 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.7 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1.0 cm in super macro mode
ISO range: 64-6400 (3200 and 6400 at reduced resolution only)
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 22MB built-in, uses xD-Picture
Batteries/Charger: comes with 4 AA Alkaline batteries (buy NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger)
Reviews: http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/olympus_sp_590uz_review/
http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/olympus/sp-590-uz/olympus-sp-590-uz-review.html

Fujifilm FinePix S200fs (~$489)
Lens: 14.3x optical, 28-400mm, optical image stabilized (mechanical, not electrical, control)
Resolution (max): 3840 x 2880 (11.1 megapixels)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.7 inch/230,000
Optical Viewfinder: No, viewfinder is electronic
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1 cm
ISO range: 100-3200;6400 and 12800 at lower resolution
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: 47MB built-in; takes xD-Picture and SD memory cards
Batteries/Charger: rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack and charger included
Reviews: http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/fujifilm_finepix_s200exr_review/

Canon PowerShot G11(~$499)
Lens: 5x optical, 28-140mm, optical image stabilized
Resolution (max): 3648 x 2736 (10 megapixels), 3648 x 2048 (16:9)
LCD display size/pixels: 2.8 inch/461,000; fully articulated
Optical Viewfinder: Yes
Auto Focus (AF) assist lamp: Yes
Macro: to within 1 cm
ISO range: 80-3200; 6400 and 12800 at 2.5 megapixels.
Movies (max): 640x480-30fps w/sound
Memory: can use SD/SDHC, MMC/MMC+, and HC MMC+ cards.
Batteries/Charger: lithium-ion battery and charger included
Reviews: http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Canon_PowerShot_G11/
http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_powershot_g11_review/

(click for Digital SLR camera reviews and/or Digital SLR camera/gear reviews)

Martin Microscope also sells a Microscope adapter for SLR cameras.
*** cameras having Microscope adapters...
[Note: for Diagnostic Laboratories that want a digital camera dedicated to microscopy only,
See Martin Microscope's Digital Imaging page
for camera adapters http://www.martinmicroscope.com/New%20MM%20Page.htm
for phototube adapters http://www.martinmicroscope.com/Phototubes.htm
See Nikon Digital Cameras for Microscopy
See Olympus Digital Cameras for Microscopy
See Biocompare's Color Digital Microscopy Cameras
See www.microscopy.info ]

For other cameras not listed below for which you want a microscope adapter, see the ScopeTronix website.
Adapters for several Canon PowerShot and Nikon CoolPix models,
see Zarf Enterprises.
Adapters for many cameras specifically to fit Meiji microscopes.

Nikon CoolPix 6000 (~$419).
Features a 4x optical lens, 13.5MP resolution, 2.7in LCD.
Although this camera did not get good enough reviews for all around use,
http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/nikon/coolpix_p6000-review/
Martin Microscope does sell the camera and a microscope adapter as a package;
Martin Microscope adapter MMCOOL-E20.

Sony CyberShot H20 (~$259).
Features a Zeiss 10x optical lens, 10.1MP resolution, 3" LCD.
This camera got a pretty good review for all around use,
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/q209grouplongzoom/
Martin Microscope does sell the camera and a microscope adapter as a package;
Martin Microscope adapter MM99-58.

For other cameras not listed above for which you want a microscope adapter, see the ScopeTronix website.
Adapters for several Canon PowerShot and Nikon CoolPix models,
see Zarf Enterprises.
Adapters specifically for Meiji microscopes.

--- Please contact your UK District Extension Information Technology Contact (DEITC) if you need help in deciding which options for moving digital images from a digital camera to your computer(s) will be compatible with your county's equipment.
Erica Burchett - District 1 - 859/257-3335 ext. 332
David Niece - District 2 - 606/666-2438 ext. 226
Rick Hayes - District 3 - 859/257-3335 ext. 554
Clavin Groves - District 4 - 859/257-3335 ext. 559
Belinda Williams - District 5 - 606/677-6184
John Johnson - District 6 - 270/365-7541 ext. 296
Richard Phelps - District 7 - 270/365-7541 ext. 276

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Use your digital camera as a video camera

You can use you digital camera as a video camera by using the "Video Out" port on the digital camera. Your camera likely has a "Video Out" port and if so, it came with a cable to go from your camera to a TV or LCD Projector. This can aid in showing small objects to a large audience at one time (click to see image for explanation - 32KB).

Click to see how the camera and projector are hooked together - 68KB.Note: Most digital cameras shut down if they have not been used for a specific length of time so do not be alarmed if the images goes blank. You will need to turn the digital camera back on.

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Tips on Digital Photography

See http://www.shortcourses.com
for shortcourses on all aspects of Digital Photography,"Learn Digital Photography" from Digital Photography Review, orfor tips on digital or any type of photography also talk to
Steve Patton spatton@uky.edu 859/257-3129
or
Matt Barton mbarton@uky.edu 859/257-4736
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Tips on Buying a Flatbed Scanner

How to buy a scanner. (PC World)
See this site for Capturing a usable image from a 3-dimensional object.

From the Plant Diagnostic Information System:
Taking Diagnostic Images:
If you have to take a digital image in the field, use a digital camera. If you have the option to take the physical sample to your office, always use a scanner. Scanners give the best digital images for diagnostics. The high resolution, color definition, focus, and controlled lighting guarantee a sharp image.
Minimum Recommended Features:
Optical Scan Resolution 1200 dpi (dots/inch)
Color Depth 48 bits
Shopping for a Scanner:
When it comes to scanners you really get what you pay for but they are getting better with lower cost, all the time. Scanners offered by name brand companies often have superior tech support. When shopping, look for scanners that offer USB connections. Pay close attention to the number of seconds required for the preview and final scans.
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Microscopic Equipment for Plant Disease Diagnosis

Equipment Based on Level of Expertise/Education

How to use a Microscope (Basic Microscopy Skills):
See http://www.apsnet.org/education/LabExercises/microscopes/top.html

Equipment for use with Dissecting Microscope:
Dissecting kit - scalpel, dissecting with blades
forceps, dissecting
needles, teasing straight
lens paper

Equipment for use with Compound microscope:
Dissecting kit - scalpel, dissecting with blades
forceps, dissecting
needles, teasing straight
lens paper
Dropper bottles, square 2 fl oz capacity (for water and staining fluid)
microscope slides, plain, glass 3 x 1 inch
microscope cover glasses, 18 x 18 mmSee listings from catalogs or web sites of various vendors. Also consider the purchase of used microscopes: are often handled in quantity by major microscope brand distributors as part of trade-in policies. Also check pawn shops, microscope repair services and small scientific equipment suppliers.

References for aid in diagnosing plant diseases:
PPA-41 "Fundamental Principles of Plant Pathology for Agricultural Producers"

Principles of Diagnostic Techniques in Plant Pathology, 1993. R.T.V. Fox. CAB International. ISBN 0 85198 740 0
Available from Arizona Press, 1230 North Park Ave. Tucson, AZ 85719 $36.00.

The Plant Disease Clinic and Field Diagnosis of Abiotic Diseases, 1997. M.C. Shurtleff and C.W. Averre III. APS Press. ISBN 0-89054-217-1 Item No. 42171 $79.00.
Available from APS Press 1-800-328-7560 (same place for Disease Compendia).

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Purpose: to magnify whole specimens for diagnosis.
Magnification: 10X to 40X (or higher) by either individual lens or zoom mechanism. Eye piece lens are usually 10X and then there is a lens which magnifies the image again by 1X to 4X.
Light source: either a built-in or separate light source is necessary but can be purchased separately.
Stage base: Large enough for microscope to be stable.

Vendors:
Arc Micro Optics
http://www.arcmicrooptics.com/
New and used microscope equipment.

The Microscope Store (New Microscopes)
http://www.microscope-store.com/index.php

Daigger - Microscopes
http://www.daigger.com/control/catalog.department?deptId=Microscopes

National Microscope Exchange
http://www.nationalmicroscope.com/

Microscope World
http://www.microscopeworld.com/

Bulb Direct (bulbs/lamps for microscopes, etc.)
http://www.bulbdirect.com/

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Specifications for a Dissecting Microscope

[Note: The system we are familiar with is the one that follows. There are many brands of microscopes and video cameras, and many vendors of these products that would be suitable for the purposes explained below.]Martin Microscope makes universal microscope adapters for many Sony and Nikon CoolPix digital cameras. They fit any microscope from which an eyepiece or a photoeyepiece can be removed leaving a 23mm or 30mm ID tube, or any microscope which has a standard 1x C-mount adapter.
Martin Microscope digital camera adapters.
Frequently asked questions about MM series adapters

For other cameras not carried by Martin Microscope for which you want a microscope adapter, see the ScopeTronix website or
adapters for several Canon PowerShot and Nikon CoolPix models,
see Zarf Enterprises. Adapters specifically for Meiji microscopes.

Vendor:

A system with which we are not familiar (below).

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Specifications for a Trinocular Compound Microscope

[Note: The microscope we are familiar with is the one that follows. There are many brands of microscopes and many vendors of these products that would be suitable for viewing specimens on microscope slides.]Martin Microscope makes universal microscope adapters for many Sony and Nikon CoolPix digital cameras. They fit any microscope from which an eyepiece or a photoeyepiece can be removed leaving a 23mm or 30mm ID tube, or any microscope which has a standard 1x C-mount adapter.
Martin Microscope digital camera adapters.
Frequently asked questions about MM series adapters
For other cameras not carried by Martin Microscope for which you want a microscope adapter, see the ScopeTronix website or
Adapters for several Canon PowerShot and Nikon CoolPix models,
see Zarf Enterprises. Adapters specifically for Meiji microscopes.

Vendor:

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We have been asked about all-in-one digital microscopes.

[NOTE: We have been advised by one microscope provider not to recommend these
all-in-one microscopes:
That's just throwing away money. The camera that is built-in is always very cheap and already obsolete by the time you buy it. Then, you're stuck with a microscope with a camera that can never be upgraded - you just have to trash the whole thing in a couple of years when Windows is updated and the built-in camera will no longer function.]

So proceed at your own caution.

Wireless USB Microscope
Not your standard dissecting microscope but
magnification/camera apparatus can be hand-held for mobility.
Cost: $139.00 (ThinkGeek)
3 magnification levels - 10x, 60x, and 200x.
Digital image max. resolution is 640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels).
Video playback at 30 frames per second at 720x480.
Wireless transmission distance - ~2 meters.
USB-powered, need a computer or a power source with USB port to run it.

AM-411T USB Microscope
Not your standard dissecting microscope but
magnification/camera apparatus is on a stand with a flexible arm
and can be removed from this flexible arm.
Cost: $349.99 (ThinkGeek)
10x to 200x continuous optical zoom
Digital image max. resolution is 1280 x 1024 (1.3 megapixels)
Video playback at 30 frames per second.
USB-powered, need a computer or a power source with USB port to run it.

DC4-410 Digital Microscope
Cost: $849.00 (Microscope World)
Microscope World says the scope is made by National Optical and Scientific Instruments, Inc. of San Antonio, TX).
Is identical to National Optical Digital Stereo Microscope DC4-410
(Cost: $709.00 Home Science Tools - 10x and 30x, only)
Digital image max. resolution is 1280 x 1024 (1.3 megapixels).
Total Magnification: Magnification is as follows based on eyepieces chosen.
5x Eyepieces - 5x and 15x, only
10x Eyepieces - 10x and 30x, only
15x Eyepieces - 15x and 45x, only
20x Eyepieces - 20x and 60x, only
Price is the same no matter what eyepieces are chosen.

Wolfe® DigiVu™ CM 1.3 Stereomicroscope
Cost: $779.00 (Carolina Biological Supply Company, Catalog #592011)
Digital image max. resolution is 1280 x 1024 (1.3 megapixels).
10x and 30x fixed lens; no zoom.Wolfe® DigiVu™ CM 2.0 Stereomicroscope
Cost: $1569.00 (Carolina Biological Supply Company, Catalog #592016)
Digital image max. resolution is 1600 x 1280 (2.0 megapixels).
10x to 40x total zoom magnification.

DC5-420TH Digital Microscope
Cost: $1339.00 (Microscope World)
Microscope World says the scope is made by National Optical and Scientific Instruments, Inc. of San Antonio, TX).
Is identical to National Optical Digital Stereo Microscope DC5-420TH
(Cost: $1149.00 Home Science Tools)
Digital image max. resolution is 1600 x 1280 (2.0 megapixels).
10x to 40x total zoom magnification.

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